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Intestinal M cells: a pathway for entry of reovirus into the host
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|April 24, 1981
Abstract:
Thirty minutes after inoculation of reovirus type 1 into the intestinal lumen of the mouse, viruses were found adhering to the surface of intestinal M cells but not other epithelial cells. Within 1 hour, viruses were seen in the M cell cytoplasm and were associated with mononuclear cells in the intercellular space adjacent to the M cell. These findings suggest that M cells are the site where reovirus penetrates the intestinal epithelium.
Insights
Reovirus type 1 targets intestinal M cells for entry into the gut epithelium. These specialized cells facilitate viral penetration within an hour of exposure.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Reovirus infections can affect the gastrointestinal tract.
- The intestinal epithelium presents a barrier to pathogen entry.
- M cells are specialized epithelial cells in Peyer's patches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the initial interaction between reovirus type 1 and the mouse intestinal epithelium.
- To identify the specific cell type responsible for reovirus entry into the intestine.
Main Methods:
- Intestinal inoculation of reovirus type 1 in mice.
- Microscopic examination of intestinal tissue at 30 minutes and 1 hour post-inoculation.
Main Results:
- Reovirus type 1 adhered to intestinal M cells within 30 minutes.
- Viruses were observed within M cell cytoplasm and associated with adjacent mononuclear cells by 1 hour.
- No viral adherence was noted on other intestinal epithelial cells.
Conclusions:
- M cells are the primary site for reovirus type 1 penetration of the intestinal epithelium.
- This suggests a key role for M cells in initiating reovirus intestinal infections.